About Us

 

Nestled in New Zealand’s lush green Southland region, Waikaka Station is a fifth generation family owned farm specializing in quality genetics through their renowned Hereford, Texel and Rombreed studs. A long term passion for these breeds has seen these animals on the Paterson’s property for over 100 years 740 hectares of flat to rolling pastures is home to Waikaka Genetics’ Hereford herd which comprises of 200 cows with calves at foot, 40 rising two year old bulls, 8 sire bulls and 60 rising two year old heifers. Bull calves are left entire and around 55 are sold as yearlings into the dairy industry, the remainder being kept over until our onfarm sale in autumn. The sheep flocks number 4000 breeding ewes, 1500 ewe hoggets and 150 ram hoggets which are sold each summer to clients from around the country. The flock showcases Texels and Romneys, with very successful Romex breeding which is a cross between the two providing excellent growth and carcass along with great maternal traits. Also featuring are our Romdale, Romney Perendale Cross which offer survivability and easy lambing. Day to day running of the farm is managed by Laurie, Ross and a stockhand with the rest of the family lending a hand whenever needed. Stock are wintered on crops, and lambing and calving are both done outdoors in spring coincide with the grass growth curve.

Waikaka Station is also home to 3 generations of the Paterson Family who live and work the family property together. Laurie took over the running of the farm from his parents in 1965, and has farmed it ever since alongside his wife Sharon and now his son Ross who lives here with his wife Steph and their three children, Ollie Emmie and Leo who are the 6th generation here on the property. Ross’ brother Bill has pursued his love of flying and is a helicopter pilot now living in Queenstown with his wife Rebecca and son Jimmy. They can often be found helping out on farm particularly with the show cattle which is a passion of Rebecca’s. Visitors are always welcome at Waikaka Station, whether its a working holiday or a farm visit, our doors are always open. Feel free to get in touch and organise a time to pop in and see us or perhaps tour Sharon’s passion project, Paterson Park and Gardens.